MSNBC host Martin Bashir resigns amid Palin firestorm

(WXIA) -- MSNBC host Martin Bashir, under fire for comments he made regarding former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, resigned from the network on Wednesday, after posting an apology for his comments on the network's website.

Bashir, who joined the network in 2010, had criticized Palin for comments she made about slavery. His criticisms included his noting that someone should defecate in Palin's mouth, a punishment that had been delivered to some slaves.

"After making an on-air apology, I asked for permission to take some additional time out around the Thanksgiving holiday. Upon further reflection, and after meeting with the President of MSNBC, I have tendered my resignation. It is my sincere hope that all of my colleagues, at this special network, will be allowed to focus on the issues that matter without the distraction of myself or my ill-judged comments.

"I deeply regret what was said, will endeavor to work hard at making constructive contributions in the future and will always have a deep appreciation for our viewers - who are the smartest, most compassionate and discerning of all television audiences. I would also wish to express deepest gratitude to my immediate colleagues, and our contributors, all of whom have given so much of themselves to our broadcast."

Phil Griffin, president of MSNBC added a quote to the end of Bashir's comments:

"Martin Bashir resigned today, effective immediately. I understand his decision and I thank him for three great years with MSNBC. Martin is a good man and respected colleague - we wish him only the best."

Prior to joining the network in 2010, Bashir had been a co-host of ABC's Nightline starting in 2005.